We have a number of announcements from Immigration New Zealand to kickstart the week.
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) extension
From 27 November 2023, the maximum duration of an AEWV will be increased:
- from 3 years to 5 years for those paid at or above the median wage.
- from 2 years to 3 years for those employed under the Care Workforce sector agreement and paid the Level 3 rate
Those with existing AEWVs can apply to receive their remaining time balance. A new Job Check is not required, provided the role and employment conditions remain the same.
Contact our team to assist with visa extensions for your staff.
Maximum continuous stay and time outside NZ
A maximum 5-year continuous allowed stay will also be introduced to AEWV holders who are:
- paid at or above the median wage;
- employed under the Care Workforce Sector Agreement and paid at least the Level 4 rate;
- employed under the Transport or Seasonal Snow and Adventure Tourism sector agreement;
Beyond this five year mark, only those on a recognised pathway to residence will be able to apply for a further AEWV. Anyone not on a pathway must leave New Zealand for at least 12 months.
For roles paying less than the median wage, the maximum continuous allowed stay and time outside New Zealand depends on the role.
Want to check if your key team members are eligible for residence, so they can remain working for you?
We can undertake individual eligibility assessments and confirm pathways that will enable you to future-plan and retain staff.
Residence from work – eligibility expansion
Residence from work is a two-year pathway to obtaining residence status. Eligibility for work to residence will be extended to include non-AEWV holders, under the following pathways:
- Care Workforce
- Transport
- Green List
This means that all Temporary Work Visa holders and Critical Purpose Visitor Visa holders with work rights, will be able to claim work experience to count towards their two-year requirement. This means some could qualify for residence sooner.
Applicants must still meet the relevant median wage, or occupation-specific wage requirement at the start of their 24-month visa duration, and at the time of application. Some exceptions apply.
All applicants must still meet other requirements, including health, character, age, and English language standards.
Get in touch to discuss assistance with your team member’s residence application and what you can do as an employer to retain key staff.
Our team of Licensed Immigration Advisers has a combined experience of more than 120 years! We can assist with any immigration matter, provide tailored solutions, and process large numbers of applications efficiently. We keep you updated every step of the way.
